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The  is a global leader in green port initiatives and top-notch customer service, moving cargo with reliability, speed, and efficiency. As the premier U.S. gateway for trans-Pacific trade, the Port handles trade valued at $200 billion annually and supports 2.6 million jobs across the United States. To enhance port safety and ensure business continuity, they needed a new fire station that could handle the unique challenges of a port environment.

���سԹϺ���һ���������� worked with the port to design and build Fireboat Station 20, a state-of-the-art facility designed to protect the port from fires, spills and other emergencies. This collaborative effort between ���سԹϺ���һ���������� and the Port of Long Beach earned both the prestigious 2024 American Public Works Association (APWA) Best Project of the Year Award in the Facilities category, 2025 American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) California Engineering Excellence Honors Award, 2024 Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Federal/State/Local Government Award, and 2024 International Partnering Institute (IPI) John L. Martin Partnering Project of the Year Award

Our engineers had to consider the special challenges of a marine environment to build this new station. They designed a modern fire station with advanced equipment and comfortable living quarters for firefighters. They also built a 75-foot-tall boat bay to house the port's fireboat, known as the Protector.

The new fire station is not only safe but also environmentally friendly. It was designed to meet LEED Gold standards, which means it uses less energy and water, and has less of an impact on the environment. All building materials were selected primarily for their durability and low maintenance characteristics, ensuring they can withstand the harsh coastal environment.

The engineers also thought about the future and how climate change might affect the port. They designed the boat bay to be high enough to handle rising sea levels, ensuring the station will be protected for years to come.

“The recognition from APWA, ACEC, CMAA, and IPI signifies excellence in project delivery and innovative solutions, and celebrates projects that significantly improve the safety, sustainability and overall quality of life for the community it serves,” says ���سԹϺ���һ���������� Project Manager Milind Desai. “It’s an honor to be recognized for the lasting benefits the project is creating for the port and the Long Beach community.” 

Innovative solutions for underwater quay wall repairs and sustainable design

The project’s aging 1950s cemented-rock quay wall faced significant challenges due to extensive underwater voids at the seabed level. To address this issue, we employed a collaborative approach involving advanced technologies and expert diving techniques.

To minimize risks to divers, we used Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to accurately map the location and size of the voids. This comprehensive assessment enabled the development of a targeted repair strategy. The team, in partnership with a specialized dive contractor, implemented a novel approach to seal the voids. Cement bags were strategically placed to close the openings, followed by the injection of grout through PVC pipes equipped with ball valves. This method ensured precise control over the grout application process.

To optimize the ventilation system, we conducted a rigorous Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling study. By simulating various wind conditions, the team confirmed the effectiveness of natural ventilation. The results demonstrated that the concentrations of harmful pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter, remained well below OSHA limits, maintaining a safe and healthy working environment.

The design team incorporated a variety of safety features and sustainable technologies to achieve LEED Gold certification. These strategies included:

• Water conservation: Reducing water usage through efficient fixtures and systems.
• Renewable energy: Using green power generation sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Energy efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and ventilation systems.
• Sustainable materials: Using low-emission construction materials to improve indoor air quality.
• Waste reduction: Minimizing construction waste through effective management and recycling.
• Green housekeeping: Maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment through post-occupancy practices.

“The state-of-the-art facility is a testament to our commitment to safety and sustainability,” says Milind. “Our work with the Port of Long Beach on Fireboat Station 20 will enhance the port's ability to respond to emergencies and protect valuable assets into the future.”